Chapter 11

As Vic watched, the tallest boy pulled back his arm, winding up for a good throw, a large stone in his fist. “Hey!” Vic barked. He scowled, a look that could frighten the toughest of men. These kids didn’t stand a chance against it. “What the fuck are you boys doing?”

The three kids turned as one. Fear flashed across their faces, and Vic thought that would be the end of it. But the tall boy, he had spunk. Hefting the rock in his hand, he asked, “What’s it to you?”

“Leave that dog alone,” Vic warned.

The boy laughed, defiant. “What dog?” Turning to his friend, he shrugged and asked, “Do you see a dog here? I don’t.”

Behind the Dumpster, the dog barked once, as if relieved to be rescued.

Tossing the rock at it, the boy hollered, “Shut up, you mutt.”